On April 25, 2025, the Town of Brookhaven conducted its 10th Annual Arbor Day Seedling Giveaway in Farmingville, New York. The event attracted a significant number of participants and emphasized the importance of contributing to a greener and healthier community. Positioned at the south parking lot of the Brookhaven Town Hall, the giveaway provided residents with free native tree seedlings, mulch, and compost, while also promoting environmental stewardship programs.
Approximately 1,400 young trees and shrubs were distributed. Among the trees, the hybrid poplar was notably favored, with the bear oak following closely behind. In terms of shrubs, prairie willow and sand cherry were popular choices among residents. The remaining plants are set to be utilized on Town open spaces by the Division of Land Management.
Supervisor Dan Panico highlighted the initiative's success by stating, “Every little bit helps—especially in our wetlands—for the health of our bays and bodies of water. We’re restoring 187 acres of wetlands down in Mastic Beach, but we have projects going throughout the entire Town. This Arbor Day project was started by former Supervisor and current Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine, and I know he’d be proud to see we’re giving away three times the amount of seedlings today.”
Residents were also encouraged to advance Brookhaven's commitment to sustainability by purchasing composting units and rain barrels through the Town's online store. In total, 86 rain barrels and 63 composters were purchased. The online store is reopening due to high demand, allowing residents further opportunity to participate. Orders can be placed at https://brookhaven.compostersale.com/, with the next pick-up scheduled for Friday, July 25.
The Town of Brookhaven holds the designation of a Tree City USA community, a testament to its dedication to environmental efforts, preserving open space, and engaging the public through events like the Arbor Day Giveaway.
Further details and a Brookhaven Today segment on the event are available at http://www.brookhaveny.gov/ or by calling 631-451-TOWN.